This past week I (Blake) have been traveling through Oklahoma connecting with current supporters and meeting new ones. I’ve been to supporting churches and to OKAG Network meetings around Oklahoma. I also had the honor and privilege of sharing with the church staff that a close friend pastors. We had a powerful time together in God’s presence.

This church and staff have had a particularly tough season with an additional blow the day before I arrived. My plan was to coach them on how to cultivate good conflict. The Holy Spirit changed the plan. Instead, in the midst of this difficult season, I was able to minister to them through a word of encouragement, a collective time of worship, and group prayer. We talked about how God’s peace sustains us and that suffering and joy can go together.

I love sharing God’s heart for missions as I travel. I love sharing the vision of Zoe everywhere I go. But what makes each of those things even better is when I’m able to bless the people I’m with. This was a difficult but wonderful opportunity to bless them. After all, as a longtime supporting church, they have been a tremendous blessing to us. These friendships built over years are one of my favourite parts of being a missionary.

Thank you for allowing me to do what I do. Your prayers and support mean the world to Katy and I. And I pray that, through this journey, I can be a blessing back to you. We love and appreciate you all.